柔道

• Reading: じゅうどう
• Romaji: juudou
• Kanji breakdown: 柔 (jū/yawa) — soft, flexible; 道 (dō/michi) — way, path
• Pronunciation: /dʑɯː.doː/

Meaning

Judo. A Japanese martial art focused on throws and grappling techniques.

Founded by 嘉納治五郎 (Kanō Jigorō) in 1882, judo is one of Japan's most internationally recognized martial arts and has been an Olympic sport since 1964. Practiced in a 道場 (doujou, training hall) wearing a 柔道着 (juudougi, judo uniform). It is commonly taught in Japanese schools as part of physical education.

Examples

1. 弟は中学校で柔道を習っています。 My younger brother is learning judo in middle school.
2. 柔道はオリンピックの競技です。 Judo is an Olympic sport.
3. 柔道の試合を見に行きました。 I went to watch a judo tournament.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, martial arts, school

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 柔 (juu, soft/flexible) and 道 (dou, way/path). Literally 'the gentle way,' reflecting the principle of using an opponent's force against them.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji period

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal